What's Your Opinion?

Compiled by Bill O’Neill

QUESTION: Police Commissioner Ray Kelly recently criticized minority politicians for not doing enough to combat gun violence in their districts. Do you agree with Kelly’s comments and what should they do to decrease gun violence in the community?

“I agree with Kelly. He’s right. The politicians should be protesting against the gun violence, go to the churches and community centers. And they should speak out and bring back the gun buy-back program. Get the guns out of the community.” –O’Neil Greene, Canarsie
“It’s not really the politicians’ fault. But the whole community should take more interest in the problem, the schools especially. And then go by the housing projects and talk to the families.” –Briana Lewis, Canarsie
“I don’t agree with Kelly about the politicians. Maybe the politicians can help create more jobs. That might help decrease the gun violence. Most of all, education and tougher gun laws will help get the gun violence down.” –Craig Bayer, Manhattan
“Kelly does a very thorough job but does need a little more help from the politicians. To decrease gun violence you have to continue to get the churches, schools and community involved. Representatives from the Police Department need to talk to the kids and people in the community — and keep the buy-back program going.” –Roland Boykins, Manhattan